Avalanche Pass Trail

Avalanche Pass Trail is a designated foot path in New York’s Adirondack High Peaks region, managed by NYSDEC. Mapped as a long-distance hiking route, it uses ground surface and follows path segments and route-designated ways.

The trail is currently closed and impassable because of intense, recent mud/rock slides; DEC is surveying for additional damage and more closures are possible. Repair work at Avalanche Pass is planned for summer 2026, but the trail remains closed until further notice.

The closure affects travel through Avalanche Pass itself, making loops that pass through Avalanche Pass (including routes from the Adirondak Loj through Mt. Colden / Algonquin / Mt. Marcy) not viable at this time.

If you need an alternative passage around the affected area, DEC directs hikers to use the Lake Arnold Trail as a bypass; it’s open, but it is often described as extremely wet and muddy, so expect difficult footing where it overlaps the alternative routing.

When open (historically), Avalanche Pass is known for steep movement and sustained difficulty: the route passes between Mount Colden and Algonquin Peak and includes scrambling/boulders and numerous ladders/wooden infrastructure sections near Avalanche Lake. Allow time for rough terrain and the slower technical sections rather than treating it like a simple “connection” trail.

Avalanche Lake’s nearby infrastructure includes narrow wooden bridges/ladders along the cliffs at Avalanche Lake, which are a distinctive feature of the corridor through the pass.

More information: Booking, Backcountry Information For The Adirondack Park - NYSDEC, Mount Colden - Lake Placid